TTC Brother vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Brother stands out with its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, perfect for those who enjoy a distinct and audible tactile experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro provides a medium tactility with a fairly light touch and neutral sound, appealing to users looking for a balanced typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, while the top housings of both switches are the same, the Brother features a nylon bottom housing, while the Violet Gold Pro also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is praised for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics.
The distinction between the bottom housing materials of the Brother and the Violet Gold Pro reflects how each switch will feel and sound when pressed. The Brother, with its nylon bottom housing, will offer a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out a key, whereas the Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing will provide a similar experience. On the other hand, the top polycarbonate housing of both switches will play a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, the top housing material of polycarbonate will ensure that both switches deliver a sharp and resonant sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both switches contributes to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housing of the Brother and the Violet Gold Pro enhances the depth and fullness of the sound when typing. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing or the softer nylon bottom housing, each material brings a unique element to the overall typing experience of these switches. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and tactile feel from both the Brother and the Violet Gold Pro.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Brother the lighter option for triggering keystrokes. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is difficult to compare them in that aspect. When it comes to weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Brother switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less force to activate. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more solid and substantial typing experience may opt for the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch with a slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Brother has a shorter distance compared to the Violet Gold Pro. The Brother's 3.5 mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance offers a slightly deeper key press, which might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches provide a smooth key press experience, but the shorter travel distance of the Brother may result in a faster and more responsive typing experience compared to the slightly longer travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch is sure to please those who enjoy a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it an ideal choice for a variety of settings and preferences. Both switches will provide an enjoyable auditory experience, with the Brother offering a more pronounced and crisp click, while the Violet Gold Pro provides a more moderate and balanced sound.
In terms of feel, the Brother switch offers an easy-to-press experience with a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, the Brother switch provides a stepped tactile feel, giving users a sense of two distinct stages in the keystroke. Similarly, the Violet Gold Pro switch also offers a stepped tactile feel, providing a mild and balanced typing experience that is suitable for various typing styles and preferences. Both switches offer a unique tactile sensation that enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch both bring their own unique qualities to the table when it comes to sound and feel. While the Brother switch offers a more pronounced and crunchy sound with an easy-to-press feel, the Violet Gold Pro switch provides a more neutral sound signature and a similarly stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one is seeking. Both switches are sure to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers and experienced keyboard enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a light actuation force, a satisfyingly crunchy sound, and a well-balanced tactile bump, the Brother switch would be an excellent choice for you, especially if you prefer a more easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a light touch, a neutral sound profile, and a stepped tactile feel, the Violet Gold Pro switch would be the ideal option for you, providing a balanced typing experience suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences, so choose wisely based on what best suits your needs.
Mentioned in this article
